Today’s unanimous terrorism funding verdict a historic day for justice | Causes, Not Just Cases®
Almost 10 years since my partner and friend Ron Motley said to me, “Joe, we can make a difference, this is a cause no one else will do,” a Brooklyn, N.Y. jury today returned a unanimous verdict in favor of the plaintiffs in Linde et al. v. Arab Bank PLC, finding Arab Bank responsible for terrorist financing – the first time that a financial institution has been brought to trial under the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA).
Using the fundamentals of the U.S. civil justice system to help the fight against terrorism was considered a long shot. By hard work and dogged determination, this case was built on solid documentation, that we and co-counsel carefully tracked down in tracing the money. We refused to give up and didn’t leave a stone unturned.
I am so proud of all my colleagues who worked tirelessly for 10 years to make sure we saw today. Our clients are brave and determined in fighting with us to achieve justice. Our attorneys and staff are committed to doing everything we can within the civil justice system to make those accountable take responsibility.
This victory is not just about this case but about all of the cases, large and small, that we fight for every day, for all of our clients.
Through my 30 years of practicing law, this has never before been so true – whether we are litigating asbestos cases for victims of illness and cancer like mesothelioma, or the tobacco industry, or securities fraud, the same rules apply: fight for your clients’ rights and don’t be afraid to take on what seems like an insurmountable challenge. Today’s verdict demonstrates that perseverance and believing that you can and will make a difference can make amazing things happen.
As Ron said, “I am proud to be a trial lawyer…I will fight for my clients’ rights.”